Edward D. DiPrete facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward DiPrete
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| 70th Governor of Rhode Island | |
| In office January 1, 1985 – January 1, 1991 |
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| Lieutenant | Richard A. Licht Roger N. Begin |
| Preceded by | John Garrahy |
| Succeeded by | Bruce Sundlun |
| Mayor of Cranston | |
| In office 1978–1985 |
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| Preceded by | James L. Taft Jr. |
| Succeeded by | Michael Traficante |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Edward Daniel DiPrete
July 8, 1934 Cranston, Rhode Island, U.S. |
| Died | July 8, 2025 (aged 91) |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse |
Patricia DiPrete
(died 2011) |
| Children | 7 |
| Education | College of the Holy Cross (BA) |
Edward Daniel DiPrete (July 8, 1934 – July 8, 2025) was an American politician. He served as the 70th Governor of Rhode Island for three terms, from 1985 to 1991. During his time in office, he faced serious legal challenges. He is the only Rhode Island governor who served time in prison.
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Early Life and Public Service
Edward DiPrete was born in Cranston, Rhode Island, on July 8, 1934. He went to the College of the Holy Cross and earned a degree there. He also received special honorary degrees from several other colleges.
Before becoming governor, DiPrete was very involved in his hometown of Cranston. From 1970 to 1974, he was part of the Cranston School Committee, helping to make decisions about local schools. After that, he served on the Cranston City Council from 1974 to 1978. He then became the mayor of Cranston, serving from 1978 until 1985.
Serving as Governor of Rhode Island
Edward DiPrete became the 70th Governor of Rhode Island in 1985. He served for three two-year terms, leading the state until 1991. In the 1990 election, he ran for re-election but was defeated by Bruce Sundlun.
During his time as governor, Edward DiPrete faced serious questions about how some state contracts were given out. After a period of legal review, he admitted to making mistakes regarding these contracts. He served time in prison for these actions. As a result, his state retirement pension was also stopped.
Personal Life and Legacy
Edward DiPrete was known for being a very relatable person. He even served fried chicken from a supermarket to guests in his motor home! Once, during a big snowstorm in February 1987, he parked his motor home outside the Rhode Island State House. This way, he could still get to work despite all the snow. He also had a Pac-Man arcade game at home, which he showed to President George H. W. Bush in 1989.
Edward DiPrete and his wife, Patricia, had seven children. Patricia passed away in 2011. Edward DiPrete lived in Cranston for most of his life. He passed away on July 8, 2025, on his 91st birthday.
See also
- List of mayors of Cranston, Rhode Island
